Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is a topic that many hairdressers are familiar with. Many stylists make great careers in the hair industry but they are also exposed to health hazards if they are not careful.
Stylists have to work in salons for long hours while standing on their feet. Their hands are most critical as they help them make a living! The repetitive movement and regular strain on hands causes Repetitive Strain Injury. RSI has now been extended to include problems caused by static posture as well.
Other hazards which can risk a hairstylist’s health are Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) and Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS).
CTS is a common disorder that affects the hand and wrist. It affects stylists because of repetitive usage of hair scissors and other barbering tools. In Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, the median nerve is compressed, causing changes in sensation, pain, and limiting the full use of the hand.
Occupational Overuse Syndrome develops over a period of time and unlike CTS it may indicate an injury, characterized by discomfort or persistent pain in muscles, tendons and other soft tissues. It occurs because of the repetitive strong movements and constrained postures.
Even if you have been in the hairdressing business for a short time, you might have experienced occasional pain in your wrists. This happens either due to holding hairdressing scissors in the wrong position or due to usage of low quality hair shears. Therefore, investing in good quality hairdressing shears is one way to avoid Repetitive Strain Injury.
Aaron Parnell who is better known as “The Vitality Man” had suggested some exercises for hairdressers when he was featured on the Cutting Edge Hair Show. As a vitality coach and fitness counselor, he demonstrated the best ergonomics and body mechanics for stylists.
If you are a stylist suffering from Repetitive Strain Injury or wish to prevent it, watch the Better Ergonomics for Stylists episode on ScissorBoy by visiting – www.ScissorBoy.com
Tags: Aaron Parnell, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, CTS, Cutting Edge Hair Show, health care for barbers, health hazards for stylists, Occupational Overuse Syndrome, OOS, Repetitive Strain Injury, RSI
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